Soka University is probably the best-kept secret in all of Orange County, and probably all of California itself. You mention it to the locals and they just give you blank stares.

But it is the kind of place that will stick in your memory for the rest of your life. The grounds of the campus are situated at the ridge between Aliso and Wood Canyons, and command a view of the area that can only be described as staggeringly beautiful.

To say those canyons have competition from the scenery inside the grounds is to make the understatement of this young century.

Established just fifteen short years ago, the university seems to have spared no expense to build a campus worthy of its purpose. Here, you will find a delicate balance of architectural styles - heavily influenced by the very early European Renaissance, but containing elements of post-modernism, classical Greek, medieval Italian and even a hint of Empiric Spain.

But it isn't just a pretty face. The school has been consistently voted best in its treatment of its freshman class. It requires one semester study abroad, and has partnered with universities all over the world to make that a reality.

I'm afraid I didn't do too much looking into the academic side of the house. I was really too overwhelmed by its beauty.

And its calm. Come here on a weekend day and you'll spend most of the time in solitude. This was a welcome change from the parking lot called Highway 1, which took up the bulk of my late afternoon a day earlier.

I could breathe in this place, move from one astounding sight to another and just feel the calm descend over me.

That no-one in Southern California seems to know it exists is almost a comfort, really. It might mean that my second visit, whenever that may happen, will be as blissfully free of the tourist trappings as the first.

Either way, though, I just can't wait to go back.

I've posted a large gallery of shots on my blog, some of which will appear here on Trover. If you're looking for the full set, just follow this link: http://www.shootthesun.com/weblog/?p=2223

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Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

Surf & Sand Laguna Beach

10/10 Excellent

"Awesome "

Casa Loma Beach Hotel (formerly The Inn at Laguna Beach)

10/10 Excellent

""I had a fantastic stay at Hotel! The staff were warm and welcoming, and the check-in process was smooth and quick. My room was spacious, clean, The location is ideal, just a 5-minute walk to the beach. Highly recommend this hotel and would love to return!""

Montage Laguna Beach

10/10 Excellent

"Has an amazing time at this hotel. Everything was exquisite and exceeded expectations. Got a room upgrade and the large room with full on ocean view was incredible. Large balcony beautifully furnished. Gorgeous room with sitting space and the bathroom has the most fabulous bathtub. Separate walk in shower, WC and double vanity in a large space was really a standout. Even better than the four seasons hotels we have stayed at. Front desk staff super helpful and special acknowledgment to David at front desk who went above and beyond to make this stay absolutely perfect! My dog was welcomed by staff and guests alike and we will come back asap!!! Thank you Montage Laguna Beach!! "

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Soka University of America?

Soka University of America is located in a welcoming area of Aliso Viejo known for its cosy cafes and surfing. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 7 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

Where is the best place to stay close to Soka University of America?

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool. It's located 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from Soka University of America. Other good choices within a few miles include Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel and Surf & Sand Laguna Beach.

How many hotels are there close to Soka University of America?

Expedia has 7 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Soka University of America.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Soka University of America, will I receive a refund?

Yes! Most hotel reservations are refundable if you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you may still be able to cancel and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add dates, click "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to review the best deals available near Soka University of America.

What can I see and do near Soka University of America?

You'll want to browse the exhibits at Orange County Natural History Museum and Laguna Art Museum. You can check out the local talent at Festival of Arts, Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas and Soka Performing Arts Center. Spend some time exploring the the natural beauty of Main Beach Park, Heisler Park and Crescent Bay Point Park.

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Top 10 Hotels Near Soka University of America

Our top choices for Soka University of America hotels

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Homewood Suites by Hilton Aliso Viejo - Laguna Beach

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa

Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Laguna Beach Hotel

Laguna Hills Lodge

Laguna Hills Lodge

Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - Aliso Viejo

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo

The Tides Laguna Beach

The Tides Laguna Beach

Laguna Cove Hotel

Laguna Cove Hotel

Laguna Beach House

Laguna Beach House

Capri Laguna on the Beach

Capri Laguna on the Beach

La Casa del Camino

La Casa del Camino

14 West Hotel

14 West Hotel

Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach

Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach

SCP Seven4One

SCP Seven4One

Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels

Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels

Crescent Bay Inn

Crescent Bay Inn

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

Comfort Inn & Suites Irvine Spectrum

Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest

Woods Cove Hotel Laguna Beach, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

Woods Cove Hotel Laguna Beach, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

Top Soka University of America Hotel Reviews

Surf & Sand Laguna Beach

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